NCJ Number
119991
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 40 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1989) Pages: 80-84
Date Published
1989
Length
5 pages
Annotation
An American educator describes and assesses the prison education system of England, focusing on its educational offerings, the role of teachers and administrators, and the issues and problems confronting English prison education.
Abstract
Ten adult and youth penal institutions in various parts of England were visited. Prisons for males have three classifications: B (walled and most secure), C (fences), and D (no fences or walls). Thus male prisoners are sent to prisons providing the type of custody called for in their sentences. Female prisoners are not classified and are housed in C and D variety prisons. Education programs for prisoners are provided by local education authorities, with funds provided by the Home Office. Adult prison courses range from basic literacy programs to university-level courses. Courses at one youth institution include art and photography instruction. Most prisoners are incarcerated for short periods of time so education efforts are often cut short. Most of the teachers in British prisons are part-time employees, accruing no tenure and receiving no pay increases. Other issues and problems include no increases in funding for inmate education and inconsistent support for prisoner education from institution to institution. Changes and remedies suggested by prison education officers and others are discussed.